How to Get a U.S. Social Security Number as a Newcomer

Who Needs and Can Get an SSN?

• Primary Purpose: SSNs are used to track earnings for Social Security benefits and for tax reporting purposes.
• Eligibility for Noncitizens: Generally, only noncitizens who are authorized to work in the United States by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are eligible for an SSN.
• Examples of Eligible Individuals:
  • Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders).
  • Nonimmigrants holding visas that permit employment (e.g., H-1B, L-1, O-1).
  • Nonimmigrants holding an Employment Authorization Document (EAD card), such as certain spouses (e.g., some H-4, L-2 with EAD) or students on OPT/CPT.
  • Asylees and Refugees.
• Ineligible Individuals: If you are lawfully present in the U.S. but *not* authorized to work (e.g., B-1/B-2 visitors, most dependents without their own EAD), you are generally not eligible for an SSN.
  • ITIN Alternative: For tax filing purposes (if required), ineligible individuals may need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS. An ITIN does *not* grant work authorization.
  • SSA Denial Letter: If you need proof of SSN ineligibility for services like a driver's license, you can apply for an SSN and receive Form SSA-L676, "Refusal to Process SSN Application."

How and When to Apply for an SSN:

There are a few ways to apply, depending on your situation:

1. Applying with Your Immigrant Visa:
   • If you are applying for permanent residency (Green Card) from abroad via consular processing, you can often apply for your SSN card simultaneously by checking the relevant box on the Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application).
   • If you do this and your application is approved, your SSN card should be mailed to the U.S. address you provided on the application within about 3 weeks of your arrival in the U.S. as an LPR.
2. Applying with Your Work Permit (EAD) Application:
   • If you are applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) using Form I-765, you can request an SSN card directly on that application form.
   • If USCIS approves your EAD, they will send the data to the SSA, who will issue and mail your SSN card. If you don't receive it within 14 days *after* receiving your EAD, contact SSA.
3. Applying After Arrival in the U.S. (In Person):
   • If you didn't apply through the methods above (e.g., you entered on an H-1B or L-1 visa), you generally need to apply in person at an SSA office *after* arriving in the U.S.
   • Wait Time: It's often recommended to wait at least 10 business days after arriving in the U.S. before applying to allow time for your arrival information to be updated in the government's SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) system, which SSA uses to verify immigration status.
   • Complete Form SS-5: Download and fill out the Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. Ensure it's completed accurately and legibly.
   • Gather Required Original Documents: You MUST present original documents (or certified copies from the issuing agency) proving your identity, age, immigration status, and work authorization. Photocopies or notarized copies are NOT accepted. Specific requirements depend on your status, but typically include:
     • Valid Passport with U.S. Visa (if applicable)
     • Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record - print from CBP website)
     • Employment Authorization Document (EAD card), if applicable
     • Form I-20 (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 (for J-1 exchange visitors) - J-1 often needs sponsor letter too.
     • Form I-551 (Green Card), if applicable
     • Birth Certificate (may be required if passport doesn't suffice for age proof, or if applying for child). Must be original or certified copy.
     • Additional documents may be requested depending on visa type (e.g., employer letter for certain statuses). Check the SSA website for specifics.
     Original Documents Only: SSA needs to see your original documents. They will be returned to you. Do not mail original documents unless specifically instructed (in-person application is standard). Ensure your name matches exactly across all documents.
   • Visit a Social Security Office: Find your local SSA office using the Social Security Office Locator. Appointments are generally not required, but check office status and expect potential wait times.
   • Submit Application & Documents: Present your completed Form SS-5 and original documents to the SSA representative. They will review them, verify your status electronically (via SAVE), and return your documents.
   • Receive Your SSN Card: If your application is approved and verified, you should receive your Social Security card by mail, typically within 2-4 weeks, at the U.S. mailing address you provided. Ensure your name is on the mailbox.

Protecting Your SSN